Investment in Manchester Metrolink will bring substantial
improvement in the existing infrastructure through a System
Enhancement Program and through extensions to the network under
Phase 3a.

GHD is taking a leadership role in systems engineering and
integration that will enable the entire system to operate
effectively as it develops.

Mapping the scope and architecture of the extensions and
improvements onto existing system architecture allows GHD to
understand the interface issues that must be addressed and to
develop robust strategies accordingly.

For example, one key element of the System Enhancement Program is
the introduction of a new Line of Sight (LoS) signalling system
which will be implemented across both the existing and extended
sections of the network. This creates a number of different
interface scenarios between the LoS signalling contractor, the
existing operator/maintainer and the Phase 3a infrastructure
contractor.

It is vital that these interfaces are addressed in a way that
will enable the system to operated as an integrated whole when
the works are completed.

The varied changes to be integrated include: replacing a
partially signalled system with a network wide LoS system; Power
upgrade projects to support operational performance improvements;
the introduction of new rolling stock and existing vehicle and
tramstop improvements to comply with DDA requirements. These
enhancements to the existing infrastructure are being
implemented concurrently with an extension project that will see
the size of the network double within three years.

This leads to a challenging environment in which to integrate
the various systems in facilitate a seamless transition for
Metrolink operators and users.